Elaine Loughlin: Neutrality forum already facing unfriendly fire

The Government could find it hard to act on any recommendations made by the forum, writes Elaine Loughlin

Members of the Irish Neutrality League and coalition of groups highlighting alternative forums on neutrality in opposition to the Government's Consultative Forum on International Security Policy outside Leinster House, Dublin, last week. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

Is the Government's neutrality forum doomed before it even kicks off?

The State will fork out €40,000 on tea and sandwiches as Tánaiste Micheál Martin hosts the first of four meetings across the country this week, but controversial comments made by President Michael D Higgins over the weekend have already put a sour taste on the event.